














4 ^V NT, 




" . « o ' <^^ 






<;5°<. 








> \ .^^' 




. ^L 



av -^ ovJIak* V "^ ° Wilis'* '^r ^ oX/JIah^* «^ ^--^ 








PREFACE 

In the following pages it has been the aim throughout to 
state facts in their concisest form. The book is published for 
the aid of the tourist visiting Block Island during its summer 
season. With that end in view, the material has been arranged 
as far as possible to afford ready reference, and to give the 
desired information concerning the place in brief form. 

As it is always interesting to know the events that have gone 
before, a short sketch of the Island's past precedes the guide. 
For the greater part of that material the author is indebted to 
Rev. S. T. Livermore's HiSTORY OF Block IslaND, the only 
work of the kind which has previously been published. The 
following sketch can scarcely be called a history. It is merely 
the story of Block Island, and with Macaulay "I shall cheer- 
fully bear the reproach of having descended below the dignity 
of history." 

The information which fills the pages of the book has 
been gathered with care and difficulty, but it is not exhaustive 
nor infallible. It is presented to the reader with the hope that 
he may better know the beauties of the little isle he is visiting, 
the character of its people, the quaintness of its legends, its 
own natural attractiveness — and with this knowledge. Tourist, 
may you enjoy and love it more ! 



Ni 



To THE Memory 

of one who helped to make Block Island 
what it is 

the late Hon. Nicholas Ball 

and 

to the one who by her living inspiration has 
helped to make this small book a reality 

My Mother 



BLOCK ISLAND 

An Illustrated Guide 



BY 

BEATRICE BALL, B. A. 




PUBLISHED FOR 
C. C. BALL. BLOCK ISLAND, RHODE ISLAND 






T- 



I CI.A '2451.12 
AUa 5 1909 



FOREWORD 

It is as a summer resort that Block Island has won the popu- 
larity she so well deserves. The other watering places along 
the coast have come into favor because of their splendor, show 
and gay festivities. In antithesis, our island offers to her 
visitors only the gifts with which Nature has endowed her, but 
these have proven to be of such strong appeal that her vogue 
is as widespread as that of her richer rivals. 

In fact Nature was lavish with her gifts to this little pear- 
shaped isle. In location it is unsurpassed. Washed on all sides 
by the Atlantic, it has the advantages of an island, yet is in 
close access to the mainland. Its rolling surface, and gradual 
slope from the high bluffs on one side to the smooth, sandy 
beach on the other, have proven a problem too great for scient- 
ists. Its rugged scenery, varied by green fields, cut off now 
and again by the characteristic stone fences, by sturdy, little 
hills, and ponds of all sizes and descriptions, vies with the 
alluringness of its marine attractions. Here, then, one finds 
shore and country ideally combined. 

Travellers have compared Block Island's gorgeous sunsets 
to those of Italy. Whereas the beauties of her moonlight nights 
are unequalled anywhere. Above all, one here, can view old 
ocean in its phases of infinite variety. Everchanging, it is now 
"blue, darkly, deeply, beautifully blue," now "golden beneath 
the sun-lit sky," now silvery in the moonlight. Block Island 
is, indeed, an ideal spot, which makes one feel the loveliness of 
Nature's work, and realize with Young that "The course of 
Nature is the art of God." 



TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Preface. 

Dedicatory Note. 

Foreword. 

Whittier's The Palatine. 

Brief History, 

Information Concerning the Island (alphabetically arranged) 

Hon. Nicholas Ball. 

Index. 

Advertisements. 



Circled by waters that never freeze, 
Beaten by billow and swept by breeze, 
Lieth the island of Manisses, 

Set at the mouth of the Sound to hold 
The coast lights up on its turrets old. 
Yellow with moss and sea-fog mould. 



But in summer time, when pool and pond 

Held in the laps of valleys fond. 

Are blue as the glimpses of sea beyond. 

When the hills are sweet with the brier-rose. 
And, hid in the warm, soft dells, unclose 
Flowers the mainland rarely knows; 

When boats to their morning fishing go. 
And held to the wind, and slanting low. 
Whitening and darkening the small sails show, — 

Then is that lonely island fair; 

And the pale health-seeker findeth there 

The wine of life in its pleasant air. 

No greener valleys the sun invite 

On smoother beaches no sea-birds light 

No blue waves shatter to foam more white! 

There circling ever their narrow range. 

Quaint tradition and legend strange 

Live on unchallenged, and know no change. 

— John Creenleaf Whittier, "The Palatine. 



Mi 



A BRIEF SKETCH OF THE HISTORY OF BLOCK 

ISLAND 

"Since brevity is the soul of wit, and tediousness the limbs 
and outward flourishes I will be brief." 

— Shakespeare, "Hamlet.'* 

As far back as history tells us Block Island was inhabited 
by the Narragansett Indians, and known to them as the IsLE 
OF Manisses, meaning "Little God," or "Little God's ^| 

Island." The dates of their occupancy we do not know, but i 

in 1 524 they were visited by Verrazano, the French navigator, ) 
who was exploring the coasts of New England. He described 

the spot as being triangular in shape "full of hills, covered with 1 

trees," and gave to it the name of Claudia, in honor of the | 

mother of Francis I, king of France. The Frenchmen made | 

no stay, some say they did not even land, and sailed away \ 

leaving the Indians to hold undisputed sway for nearly a j 

century. | 

Not until 1614 did the Island again attract the attention of 

explorers. In that year Adrian Block, a Dutch trader, landed . 

upon its shores and called it Adrian's EylaND, a name by | 

which the whites knew it for many years following, and which ' 

; later became Block Island. From this time on it was visited \ 

quite frequently by traders from the mainland. One of them, | 

John Oldham, from Boston, was killed by the savages in 1 636 \ 

on one of his expeditions. The Massachusetts colony, in ! 

attempt to avenge the death of their member, sent Col. John | 
Endicott with a small group of followers to visit the place of 



i 




Oldham's death. He described the spot in glowing terms, and 
brought about its transfer from the possession of the Narra- 
gansetts to the Massachusetts colony. In 1658 the Island 
again changed hands, this time coming under the control of four 
citizens who sold it two years later to sixteen purchasers for 
£400. The Island was divided accordingly, and in 1 662 the 
new owners sailed from Taunton for their new home. 

The Narragansetts looked upon their arrival as a decided 
intrusion, and hostilities immediately broke out. But after a 
few years peace was brought about, and the Indians and whites 
lived on friendly terms, and in 1 672 the town was incorporated 
by charter under the name of New Shoreham. But no sooner 
were peaceful relations established than outside difficulties 
arose. England was at war with France and Block Island 
proved a tempting spot for French invaders. Pirates plundered 
far and wide, and the little Island with difficulty held its own. 
Finally help came from the mainland, and except for occa- 
sional raids of the pirates a period of comparative peace was 
maintained until the Revolution. 

With the War of Independence, however, fresh troubles 
arose in the demands made by the mother colony. The 
inhabitants of the mainland realized Block Island's unpro- 



k 



ttHMMi 



MWI 



■■Ml 



mm 



tected position, and not wanting her valuable stores to be cap- 
tured by the British, made the demand themselves. They took 
her sheep, cattle and military stores. The Islanders refused even 
then to give up their independence, and unprotected, without 
supplies or other aid, they braved the attacks of the British 
alone. The Rhode Island Assembly later became more 
lenient and granted more privileges to the "Island of the 
Sea." Deserters from both armies fled here for concealment 
and added more difficulty to the already troubled state of 
affairs. The end of the war again brought peace and pros- 
perity to the little Isle which had striven so hard for her own 
independence. During the struggle the Islanders had drawn 
up their own constitution, made their own laws and abided by 
them. It was a tiny democracy regularly governed, inde- 
pendent and uncomplaining, with a love of freedom, and 
religious belief in the ultimate success of the struggle for 
liberty. 

During the war of 1812 Block Island was declared to be 
neutral ground and her fair shores were not pillaged by war, 
but were rather a delightful rendezvous for both fleets. From 
that time on she has ever been growing in acknowledgment of 
right, freedom and industry. For the Civil War she furnished 
able soldiers, and although cut off from the mainland, has 
always maintained a spirit of patriotism and law-abiding 
citizenship. 



<m 




and play at 



AMUSEMENTS 

"Let them freely feast, sing and dance . . 
what sports and recreations they like best." 

— Burton, *'Anatom]) of Melancholy." 

Block Island offers to her visitors the same wholesome amuse- 
ments of any other seaport town, and adds to them those of the 
country. The hotels furnish music for dancing, concerts, card 
parties and entertainments for their guests, while the spacious 
verandas, with views of the ocean, and passing navigation, are 
always popular. For those who care for out-of-door sports, 
fresh and salt water fishing, boating, rowing, bathing, diving, 
swimming and shooting offer favorable opportunities. Walks 
along the beach and cliffs and drives to different parts of the 
Island are general pastimes, and other diversions like mounting 
sea-weed and searching for garnets on the shore prove fascinat- 
ing recreations. Garnets are found back of Ocean View Hotel 
and on toward Pebbly Beach, where they are picked out of the 
sand at low tide. When cut and polished they become beauti- 
ful little souvenirs worthy to be set in valuable jewelry. Tennis, 
bowling and golf are always in vogue and baseball games are 
played three times a week on Spring House grounds. Here 
spectators gather from all parts of the town to watch the rival 



Jkm 



IM 



iKittiili 



teams. Lobster suppers, torchlight processions, straw rides and 
moonUght sails are other suggestions for an evening's fun. 

BATHING BEACH 

"The sailor and bather kiss off the salt spray 
To plunge through the rollers that surge up the bay." 

— Marshall Spring Pike. 
Crescent Beach, just south of Clay Head, forms an ideal 
spot for bathing. The incurving shore gives it natural protec- 
tion, and entices the billows to break near in. The beach is 
smooth, sandy, and of gradual descent. There is no undertow. 




:.^g£SHiaaHH'«^4i 




S^> 



and bathing is safe for all. The nearness of the gulf stream 
tends to make the water of a pleasing temperature, and renders 
the bath invigorating and healthful. 

The bath-houses are equipped with conveniences for bath- 
ing, while an efficient life saver is always on duty on the beach. 

The beach may be reached by the horse car line from both 
harbors, by the Neck Road or by beach north from Surf Hotel. 

BIRDS 

" — where the bold, wild sea-bird makes her home. 
Her shrill cry coming through the sparkling foam." 

—R. H. Dana. 

To the scientist or even nature lover, the bird neighbors are 
always an interesting phase of a new place. Block Island is 
fortunate in counting among her aerial inhabitants both land 
birds and those frequenting the shore. Among the latter, gulls, 
shags, wild geese, ducks, shell drakes, loons, sandpipers, herons, 
cranes and fish hawks abound. An occasional eagle stops over 
in his flight, while meadow hens, king fishers, quail, meadow 
larks, cliff, barn and chimney swallows, martins, blue birds, 
robins, vesper and song sparrows, red wings, crows, owls, snow 



birds, phoebes and woodpeckers may all be found in their sea- 
son. Now and then an oriole or cardinal bird attracts atten- 
tion by his brilliant coloring, but because of the few trees birds 
of this character are not common. 

CEMETERY 
* "Expressive silence." 

— Thomson. 

The Island Cemetery is but a few moments walk in a 
westerly direction from the New Harbor. It is interesting for 
its quaint tombstones, the curious inscriptions they bear and 
their dates, some of which go back to the seventeenth century. 

Indian Burying Ground. The corner lot north of fresh 
pond contains the bones of the past dwellers on the Ise of 
Manisses. Only dark, rough stones mark the graves and tell 
the story of the lives of the noble Indians who were Block 
Island's first inhabitants. 

CHURCHES 

Spires whose "silent finger points to heaven." 

— Wordsworth. 

The attitude of the first settlers of the Island in laying out 
a portion of land of equal value to their own for the support 
of the gospel is still characteristic of the Block Island people. 
Three churches flourish the year round, and two others are open 
during the summer months. Each edifice is a credit to the 
Island, and its members are glad to welcome visitors who care 
to worship with them. 



J 




First Baptist Church, Chapel Street. Pipe organ. 
Vested choir. Services, 10.45 A. M.. 7.30 P. M. 

Free Will Baptist Church, West Side. Services, 
10.45 A. M., 7.30 P. M. 

Methodist Church, The Centre. Beside Town Hall. 
Services. 10.45 A. M., 7.30 p. M. 

St. Andrew's Church (Catholic), Chapel Street. 
Mass, 6 and 9.30 A. M. Also evening services. 

St. Anne's by the Sea (Episcopal). Morning services, 
8 and 1 1 A. M. Vespers, 5 P. M. 

DISTANCES FROM EAST HARBOR LANDING 

*' 'Tis distance lends enchantment to the view." 

— Campbell, ''PL of Hope." 

Miles. 

Baldwin's Cottage, "Idle Hour" \Ys 

Barlow's Cottage 3 

Bath Houses ^ 

Beacon Hill 2|/8 

Black Rock 3^ 

Block Island Life Saving Station 3^ 

Campbell's Cottage 3^ 

1 

8 



Catholic Church |/^ 

Central Telephone Office }/& 

Clay Head Bluffs 3^ 

Dickens' Point 4|/8 

Dorry's Cove 31/2 

Episcopal Chapel j/g 

First Baptist Church Ys 

Flynn's Cottage, "Airam" Ys 

Free Will Baptist Church 3 

Fresh Pond IV^ 

Fog Signal 15/8 

Grace's Cove 3|/8 

Grace's Point 3^ 




t*^^* 4 •^i.Mfc*^^^. • 




^^■. 




Grove Point 
Harbor Pond 

Indian Cemetery 2 

Indian Head Neck 1 1/2 

Island Cemetery 2 

J. Deming Perkins' Residence 2|/^ 

Judge Aleck Boarman's Residence J/% 

Maltby's Cottage, "Ninicraft Lodge" 1 1/2 

Mill Pond Ys 

Mineral Springs ]/4 

Miner's Cottage 1^ 

Mohegan Bluffs 1 ^ 

New Harbor 1 1/2 

New Shoreham Life Saving Station |/2 

Olcott's Cottage 1 ^ 

"^^ Old Harbor Point % 

Old Windmill V/s 

Pebbly Beach ^ 

Pilot Hill 114 

Post Office l/g 

Potter's Residence ^ 

Primitive Methodist Church 1 14 



m 



10 



Reservoir H/Z 

Sachem's Pond 4 

Salisbury's Cottage |/4 

Sandy Hill 3 

Sandy Point Life Saving Station 5 

Sandy Point Light 5 

Slade's Residence (formerly Searle's Mansion) \]/4 

South East Point 1 H 

South Light 15^ 

Stewart's Cottage 1 ^ 

Telegraph Office ^ 

The Centre P/4 




11 




Town Hall and Free Library P/^ 

United States Weather Bureau Ys 

Vaill Cottages 2|4 

West Side Windmill 2^ 

Elevations Feet 

Sandy Hill 74 

Clay Head Hill 142 

Hill, near South Light 146 

Pilot Hill 182 

Beacon Hill, 211. 
Distances Around the Island. 

On the Shore 17 miles 

By water 20 miles 

Elevations and Distances Around the Island from Liver mores 
''Block Island." Length and Width. 

Greatest length about 7 miles 

Greatest width nearly 4 miles 

DISTRICTS 
"All are but parts of one." — Pope. 
The Island is comprised of five districts, called respectively 
the Harbor, the Centre, the Neck, the West Side and the 

i 



t 



South East. Each has a Httle settlement of its own, although 
the business centre of them all is really the Harbor. The name 
of each describes its situation. 

The Centre is notable for the meeting of the four original 
roads, each of which leads to the water. Overlooking the 
junction is the Town Hall, used also for the Library and High 
School. Beside it is the new Methodist Church. The settle- 
ment around the New Harbor, with its stores and hotels, is 
included in this district as well as the Old Windmill, the 
Central, an apartment house, centre school building and 
cemetery. 

The Harbor is the centre of summer activity as well as 







I winter Interests. Churches, hotels, post office, shops, inns, and 
restaurants are located near the wharf and landing. The Life 
Saving Station and Bathing Beach also come under this head. 

The Neck's chief attractions are Clay Head, noted for its 
superb outlook, and Sandy Point Light House and Life Saving 
Station. Some of the finest farms of the Island are in this 
district. 

The South East district is known to all by the South 
Light, the summer residences, Mohegan Bluffs and Pebbly 
Beach. Sands Pond, Pilot Hill and the gulley are nature's 
own donations. Garnets are found on the East Shore, and from 
the ponds in this district are procured most of the pond lilies 
offered for sale. 

The West Side is the home of the other windmill, Sandy 
I and Beacon Hills, Life Saving Station. Free Will Baptist 
Church and its own little settlement with stores, school house 
and private homes. 

DRIVES 

"Ever charming, ever new, 
^ When will the landscape tire the view?" 

— John D^er, ''Gronger Hill" 
The uneven surface, picturesque scenery and refreshing 



14 



breeze are all conducive to driving. Whereas there is no danger 
of anyone getting lost by a confusing number of roads, there 
are several drives recognized as of particular interest and are 
briefly described below. 

Beacon Hill, because of the splendid view it affords, is a 
pleasing spot to visit when driving. It may be reached by fol- 
lowing the Old Road from the Harbor School House and by 
taking the road straight ahead from the Centre, or by any of 
the West Side Roads. The first way suggested passes a lot 
which supposedly contains some of the chests of Captain Kidd, 
and evidences of a few attempts at recovering them are still 
visible (See Hills.) 

Clay Head drive takes one to the northern part of the 





Island by following the Neck Road and branching off at the 
right through the gates of the Block Island Land Improvement 
Company. It is no longer possible to drive along the edge of the 
bluffs, but the drive through the fields to a higher elevation is 
most worth while for the general survey it affords. Continu- 
ing on the Neck Road one reaches Sandy Point with its North 
Light and Life Saving Station, and by careful driving one may 
return along West Beach. Because of the sandy road this is 
only practical for a light rig, but the low lying hills and ponds 
make a pretty scene which is a charming background for the 
wild flowers and birds so abundant here. 

Crescent Beach at low tide offers an alluring drive on 
the shore. The sound of the horses' hoofs, the roar of the waves, 
and often the welcoming sandpipers add to the charm. By 
turning off to the left the Neck Road may be reached if so 
desired. 

MoHEGAN Bluffs and Ocean Drive is the most popular 
drive of all. Going up Spring Street from Fountain Square to I 
the South East Light House, thence along the cliffs to Vaill ' 
Cottages, gives a splendid view of the ocean. Then by turning 
to the right one may return by Sands Avenue, the Centre oi 
New Harbor. It is possible to keep on further along the cliffs 



16 




and to come out through meadows to the West Side road. 
the way is rough, and not a pubHc road. 

West Side drive follows in rough the outline of that part of 
the Island. Leaving New Harbor, and following road by the 
cemetery it brings one back by Beacon Hill, Old Windmill or 
road still further south. By turning down each of several little 
roads leading to the water one reaches the shore, but there is 
no continuous drive on the beach. 

• Vaill Cottages may be reached by Ocean Drive, but a 
[more direct way is by going up High Street and taking the first 
main turn to the left, passing Sands Pond. This necessitates 
the opening of several gates, but affords pleasant scenery. 



17 



i 



:-!Ss:^j;mB 




FRA TERNAL ORGAN IZ A TIONS | 

"A mystic bond of brotherhood makes men one." 

— Carlyle. 

American Mechanics. United Order. Mohegan Coun- 
cil. Tuesday evenings. Masonic Hall (High Street). f 

Daughters of Liberty. Friday evenings. Masonic 
Hall. 

Daughters of Rebecca. First and third Wednesday 
evenings of each month. Odd Fellows Hall (beside Post 
Office). 

Knights of Pythias, Columbus Lodge. 

Masons, Atlantic Lodge, A. F. A. M. Saturday evenings. 
Masonic Hall. 

Odd Fellows. Independent Order. Neptune Lodge. 
Saturday evenings. Odd Fellows Hall. 



V 



GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS 

I "Protection and patriotism are reciprocal." 

I — Calhoun. 

Block Island is fortunate in possessing several well con- 
structed buildings erected by government for public service. 



18 



T 



Visitors are cordially welcomed and shown about, and if they 
are unfamiliar with the service it proves an interesting as well as 
novel experience. The South East light house is most popular 
with tourists. The light is rated first-class, and may be seen 
thirty-five miles at sea. The lantern consumes a thousand 
gallons of oil per year, and is so large that six persons can stand 
within the glass at the same time. A splendid view of the 
Island may be obtained from the top of the building, and 
visitors are admitted from 10 to 12 A. M., 1 to 5 P. M., except 
holidays and Sundays. A fog horn is run in connection with 
the light and is located nearby. The life saving stations are 
also open to those who care to visit them, and the life savers are 






' glad to explain the use of the apparatus. Practice is held every 
Monday morning except in June and July, when the life savers 
are off duty. 

j Harbor Life Saving Station. South end of Crescent 
Beach on Neck Road. 

North Light House. Sandy Point. At termination of 
. Neck Road. 

Post Office. Main Street. North of Fountain Square. 
Sandy Point Life Saving Station. Sandy Point. At 

termination of Neck Road. 

South East Light House. Mohegan Bluffs. Ocean 
Drive. 

Weather Bureau. On car line to New Harbor. Oppo- 
site Hygeia Hotel. 

West Side Life Saving Station, at Coonimus, on West 
Shore. On continuation of road west of Warden's Pond. 



20 








21 







HARBORS 

"I remember the black wharves and the sHps, 

And the sea-tides tossing free. 
And the beauty and mystery of the ships. 

And the magic of the sea." 

— LongfelloTif. 

In days before harbors were provided for the safety of the 
boats the fishermen tied their crafts to piles in the sand. A 
few of these stubs may still be seen protruding from the beach 
near the fish houses at East Harbor. The boats in those days 
were the famous double enders, so-named because both bow 
and stern were alike, distinctly a Block Island creation. They 
were safe and sure and tradition says that there never was one 
lost. These boats are getting fewer each year, but a couple 
still remain to tell the story of the olden days when they pro 
vided the only means of transportation to and from the Island. 

But now everything is different. Government has provided 
safe harbors for all who care to enter, and assisted nature in 
making a pleasant haven for boats in port. 

East Harbor of Refuge, sometimes known as Old 



L 



22 



Harbor, is the home of most of the fishing craft. Ahhough 
:he steamers MoUNT HoPE and Danielson land here, it is 
mostly interesting for the picturesque picture it presents to view, 
[n the inner basin one finds at the wharves crafts of all descrip- 
tions and varieties — the well equipped schooners, trim little cat 
Doats ready for sailing parties, quaint double enders, yawls, 
/achts and tiny motor boats which defy the elements. Here at 
he close of the day, when the fishermen return with their 
'catch," the fish are landed, weighed, sold and shipped to the 
nainland. The walk on the pier at twilight is a favorite stroll 




23 




when the gorgeous sunset is reflected in the waters of the bay. 
Outside the basin larger boats He at anchor, and often in the 
bay beyond the breakwater. In the spring time the latter is a 
popular anchorage for the mackerel fleet, sometimes over two 
hundred vessels being there at once. While all the year pass- 
ing ships, including tows, steamers, foreign craft and war ships, 
run in for protection, repairs or anchorage. 

New Harbor, surrounded by natural boundaries, is a 




tempting spot for yachts on the Sound. Steamers from New 
York, Long Island, New London, Norwich, Watch Hill, 
Providence and Newport land here daily during the summer. 
Pleasure boats and some fishing craft may always be seen. 

HILLS 

"As when the golden sun salutes the morn, 
And, having gilt the ocean with his beams, 
' Gallops the zodiac in his glistening walk, 

^ And overlooks the highest peering hills." 

I — Titus Andronicus. 

The rolling surface of the Island has been mentioned as one 
of her most characteristic features. The little hills thus formed 
number many and a mere enumeration of them would be use- 
less. The following list contains only those most noted or those 
from whose summits the most extensive view of the Island may 
I be obtained. 

j Beacon Hill, the highest point on the Island, may be 
j" reached by taking the road west from the Centre. It derives its 
name from the Indian custom of burning beacons, by which 
they communicated with the tribes on the mainland. On a 
clear day four states may be seen from its summit — Massachu- 
setts, Rhode Island, Connecticut and New York. It gives a 
bird's-eye view of the village and shows the Island as a whole. 
Pilot Hill is on the way to Mohegan Bluffs via High 
Street. It commands a splendid view of the town and broad 
outlook on the ocean. It was here that the pilots used to watch 
for passing vessels in the days of long ago, 

25 




Plover Hill, near the South West shore, is the highest in 
its neighborhood. It offers a grand survey of the Atlantic and 
is especially attractive on moonlight nights. 

Sandy Hill is near the shore of the Sound and may be 
reached by following the road by the cemetery to the West 
Side. 

HOTELS 

"Welcome the coming, speed the going guest." 

— Pope. 

Since 1842, the date of the opening of Block Island's first 
hotel, public houses for the accommodation of guests have 
sprung up in great numbers until now the list includes houses 
of many varieties and pretences. Most of them are run by 
Island people who cordially welcome their patrons, and interest j 
themselves in their welfare. 

Adrian. Nathan Mott. Overlooking Fountain Square. 
Can accommodate 80 guests. Rates: $15 per week, $2.50 
and $3.00 per day. i 

Atlantic House. Frederick A. Rose. Reached by' 
High Street. Capacity : 1 00. Rates : $2.00 per day. 



26 



— . -^ 

Bellevue. L. R. Mott. High Street. Capacity: 30. 
Rates: $1.50 to $2.00 per day. 

Block Island House. Capt. George W. Conley. On 
road to Pilot Hill. Capacity: 50. Rates: $1.50 to $2.00 
per day. j 

Bonanza Cottage. Mrs. Wm. Littlefield. Neck Road. 
Capacity : 40. Rates : $ 1 .50 to $2.00 per day. 

Connecticut House. Mrs. M. M. Day. Connecticut 
Avenue. Capacity: 90. Rates: $2.00 per day. 

Crown. Wm. Everett Rail. Near New Harbor. 
Capacity: 35. Rates: $1.50 to $2.00 per day; $8.00 to 
$12.00 per week. 

Dodge Cottage. Wm. Talbot Dodge. High Street 
Village. Capacity: 35. Rates: $2.50 per day; $10.00 to 
$12.00 per week. Open all the year. 

Fair View Cottage. Mrs. L. Dodge. Old Road. 
Capacity: 25. Rates: $2.00 per day. j 

Highland. L. A. Mitchell. High Street. Capacity: 
1 00. Rates: $2.00 to $2.50 per day. 

Hygeia, j. C. Champlin. New Harbor. Capacity : 250. .^ 

Rates: $2.50 to $3.00 per day. '^' ' 

\ Manisses. C. E. & E. A. Brown. Spring Street. 
1 Capacity: 250. Rates: $3.50 per day. 

Mitchell's Cottage. Mrs. A. W. Mitchell. High 
^ Street. Capacity: 40. Rates: $2.50 per day. 

New Haven House. W. W. Littlefield. Reached by 

27 




road to South East Lighthouse. Capacity: 30. Rates: $1.00 
to $2.00 per day. 

New National. R. G. Lewis. Main Street. Water 
front. Capacity: 200. Rates: $2.50 to $3.50 per day. 

Ocean Cottage. Oliver Rose, Manager. Main Street. 
Waterfront. Capacity: 50. Rates: $1.50 to $2.00 per day. 
Open through October. 

Ocean View. N. Ball Hotel Co. Overlooking Old 
Harbor. Capacity: 500. Rates: $3.50 to $6.00 per day. 

Pequot. D. a. Mitchell. Main Street. Water front. 
Capacity: 100. Rates: $1 .50 to $2.00 per day. 

Rose Cottage. Miss Fannie Rose. Spring Street. 
Capacity: 40. Rates: $1.50 to $2.00 per day. 

Spring House. Ray Payne, Manager. Spring Street. 
Capacity: 250. Rates: $3.50 per day. 

Summit. Mrs. A. W. Smith. On road to Vaill Cottages. 
Capacity: 50. Rates: $1 .50 to $2.50 per day. 

Surf Hotel. Mrs. C. H. Willis. Main Street. Over- 
looking Beach. Capacity: 100. Rates: $2.00 and $3.00 
per day. 



28 



Vaill Cottages. Miss Julia Vaill. Ocean Drive. South 
East. Capacity: 120. Rates: $3.00 per day. 

Windsor House. Wm. Murphy. High Street. Capacity : 
80. Rates: $2.00 per day. 

WOONSOCKET House. A. J. Rose. Capacity: 100. 
Rates: $2.00 per day. 

The above hst includes the hotels and larger places where 
the tourist may stop during his stay on the Island. It would 
not, however, be complete without mention of the smaller 
houses which genially open their doors for summer guests. 
Amid homelike surroundings, and pleasing hospitality the 
stranger may here find welcome, and choose a quiet spot which 
will make his vacation beneficial. 

Ball, Mrs. H. Ansel. Neck Road. 

Ball, Mrs. Elmira. West Side. 

Ball, Mrs. Hamilton. West Side. 

Ball, Mrs. Simeon A. Harbor Village. 

Bayside. Mrs. Everett Willis. Neck Road. 

Campbell Cottage. South Bluffs. 

Conley, James M. Reached by Spring Street. 

Dewey Cottage. J. E. Dewey. Road to New Harbor 

Dodge, Ransford. Reached by High Street. 

Dodge, Welcome. On road to South Light. j ^r; 

Dodge, Wm. Pitt. Reached by High Street. 

Hayes, Samuel L. Clay Head. 

Lake View House. Amazon Littlefield. The Neck. 



29 



'^^ 




Littlefield, Halsey. Spring Street. 

Littlefield, Silas. Spring Street. 

MiLLiKiN Cottage. A. N. Millikin. Pilot Hill. 

Mitchell Cottage. Mrs. J. E. Mitchell. Pilot Hill. 

Olsen Cottage. Richard Olsen. Main Street. Opeo 
all the year. 

Pilot Hill House. Gurdon A. Millikin. Pilot Hill. 

Poplar Cottage. Chas. E. Littlefield. The Neck. 

Rose S. Martin. Neck Road. 

Seaside. Edgar Willis. Near Bathing Beach. 

SprAGUE Cottage. Joshua Sprague. High Street. 

Sunset Hill Cottage. Wm. C. Allen. West Side. 

Wayside Inn. Daniel Mott. West Side. 

Wescott Cottage. Chas. Wescott. Facing Ocean 
Drive. 



30 



INDUSTRIES 

"In every rank, or great or small, 
\ 'Tis industry supports us all." — Ga\). 

Block Island carries on two main industries, farming — and 
;the all-important fishing. There are, of course, hotels, stores, 
'and other kinds of business represented, but these are only in 
accordance with the necessary needs of the town. Formerly 
boat building was a well known occupation. Now it is not 
prominent, although still carried on to some degree, and the 
boats which materialize are staunch, graceful and speedy. The 
gathering of sea moss, and the exporting of black sand are 
^minor means of resource. 





FARMING is practiced in all sections of the Island and is a 
substantial source of income. The soil is naturally produc- 
tive, and constantly cared for by the farmers who enrich it by 
covering with sea weed from the shore. Vegetables are some- 
what later than on the mainland, but when they are ready for 
use are unrivalled anywhere. The common vegetables are 
raised in great abundance, and with the list may be mentioned, 
artichoke, strawberries, tomatoes, mushrooms, etc. The farms 
supply the hotels in summer with poultry, milk, eggs and fresh 
vegetables, and supply lamb and veal for the markets. In the 
fall butter and cheese are added to the list, and around Thanks- 
giving time the demand for Block Island turkeys exceeds the 
supply. 

Fishing is carried on the year round, but spring and fall 
mark the busiest seasons. After the winter fishing the fleet 
sails farther from shore to meet the fish, and sometimes are away 
from home for several weeks. As the mackerel get nearer 
shore. Block Island is their favorite rendezvous, and the fisher- 
men follow them home. Soon all sorts of fish abound and are 
brought in late each afternoon. As they are dressed for market 
it is interesting to watch small boys cut the cod fish tongues, and 
in turn start a fishing industry of their own — for this forms a 



32 



prominent part of the Block Island menu. In early summer 
the swordfish appear and in their dangerous quest our fishermen 
show great bravery and skill. By this time a great variety of 
fish, among them the gamey bluefish, appear to tempt the sports- 
men and cheer the heart of the fishermen. In the fall they 
come nearer shore, and trawls and seines play a prominent part 
in their capture. 

Visitors who wish to enjoy the fishing may charter boats at 
Old Harbor, and efficient seamen will conduct them to the 
fishing grounds. 




33 




LEGENDS 

"And old men mending their nets of twine 
Talk together of dream and sign." 

— Whittier, ''The Palatine.*' 

What history of any place would be complete without some 
reference to its legends? Indeed, in the "olden days" they 
played a most prominent part in the every day life of the 
people. To-day imagination is restrained, and matter-of-fact- 
ness is taking the place of the old superstitions, but never- 
theless there still is present a lurking interest in the mysterious] 
happenings of old. Block Island had its own wierd tales, and 
a few of the old people now living will tell you of the freaks of , 
the Dancing Mortar, of the appearance of the "no-headed" 
woman by the mill pond at night, and numerous other mystical i 
proceedings. 



Most celebrated of all, perhaps, is the story of The PALA- 
TINE, made famous by Whittier's poem. It was about the 
middle of the eighteenth century that a ship, called the Pala- 
tine, sailing from Holland, came ashore on Sandy Point, Block 
Island. Many passengers were taken ashore, according to 



34 



:i| 



legend, all save one woman, who refused to land, but it seems 
more probable that the ship landed purposely to leave her dis- 
eased passengers. Most of the number, worn out by starva- 
tion and hardship, died soon after and were buried on the west 
side of the Island near the home of Mr. Lovell H. Dickens, 
where their graves may now be seen. The few survivors settled 
Dn the Island, and one, known as "Dutch Kattern," who 
married a negro slave, was thought to be a witch. The Pala- 
tine floated with the tide, and here the real facts of the story 
md. 

Whittier erroneously states that the Islanders pillaged the 
:raft and burned her ; which fact accounts for the strange light, j 
as of a burning ship, which was wont to mysteriously appear 
for years after. This, however, is authentically denied, and 
;he only record, so far found mentioning the Palatine, specifies 
:hat she was wrecked in 1 784 in Bay of Bengal. The legend, 
Dn the contrary, accounts for her end in a far different manner, j 
'ind asserts that "she changed into a ship of fire," which ever 
appears before a storm. 



(■Ma 



"Behold! again, with shimmer and shine, 
Over the rocks and the seething brine. 
The flaming wreck of the Palatine ! 

Now low and dim, now clear and higher. 
Leaps up the terrible Ghost of Fire, 
Then, slowly sinking, the flames expire." 



1121 



35 



[i _Bey 




Together with her diseased passengers the Palatine left on ] 
the Island logs of lignum-vitae from which mortars were fash-j 
ioned for crushing corn. One of them has won distinction as] 
The Dancing Mortar. Mr. Livermore describes it as 
being about fourteen inches high, ten inches in diameter, and 
as heavy as a stone of those dimensions. For many years it 
was used in the home of Simon Ray. After the death of the 
Ray family the house was supposed to be haunted, and when 
again occupied the newcomers were terrorized by the mys- 
terious antics of the old mortar. When all else was quiet the 
mortar would suddenly bound from its position, roll on its sides 
and perform marvellous manoeuvers, often so strenuously that 
the occupants were forced to leave the house. Later the 
Dancing Mortar was used as a splitting block, and for many 
years was held in place by its stone companions in a stone wall, 
until finally it was presented to Brown University, where it 
now is exhibited in Rhode Island Hall. 

During the Revolutionary period deserters from the army 
often fled to the Island and were known as REFUGEES. They 
were vicious desperadoes in search of plunder. Many tales 
are told of them entering houses and being repulsed by the 



in 



f I 



36 



Dccupants. On one occasion a band of nine was seen 
ipproaching the Island in a frail boat, heading for Old Har- 
bor Landing. As they neared the shore they were beaten by 
jhe surf, and their craft dashed to pieces. The Island people 
gathered on the shore to meet them, could hear one voice above 
*:he roaring waves commanding, "Row! boys, row for your 
lives!" and again the cry of "Help! Help!" And it is said 
'rom that time on that the cries of the "Harbor Boys" may be 
distinctly heard on the shore on a stormy night. 

Another legend in which the Islander took great stock was 




37 




that of digging for money. Captain Kidd was thought to have 
buried some of his valuable treasure here and even now there 
are a few imprints left of those who have dug for it in vain. 
Stories are still told in great abundance of individuals who have 
been informed by dream or vision of means of securing buried 
gold. There is always an element of the supernatural present 
in these secret instructions, and so far results have never been 
realized. 

THE ISLAND LIBRARY 

"Laws die, Books never." 

— Buliver-L^iton, ''Richelieu." 

TTie Island Library was founded in February, 1876. 
Within two years its volumes numbered five hundred, and at 
the present time there are three thousand books catalogued. 
^ They are of varied titles and subjects, including standard 
classics and newer fiction. The library is open to all on Satur- 
day afternoons from 2 to 4 o'clock. 



88 



LOCATION. 






"Fast-anchor'd isle." 






— CoiDper, 


''The 


Task-'* 



Block Island's shape has been compared to that of a pear, 
Sandy Point forming the stem and the southern shores sur- 
rounding the massive part of the fruit. At any rate the shape 
is very irregular, and is varied by incurving coves, each with 
its own story and appeal. Mr. Livermore gives an accurate 
description of the Island's location as "directly south of the 
central point on the southern coast of Rhode Island, twelve 
miles out at sea, connected with the main land by a submerged 





bar well known to navigators. It is southwest from Newport 
about twenty-five miles, and about eighteen miles north of east 
from Montauk, which is the east end of Long Island. By the. 
Coast survey its position is in latitude 41 degrees 8 minutes | 
north, longitude 71 degrees 33 minutes west," and adds that 
"it is sufficiently remote from the main shore, and small enough j 
to be wholly exempt from the sultry land breezes of summer 
when its refreshing coolness is most enjoyable." 



MAILS 

"Every day brings a ship, 
Every ship brings a word." 

— Emerson. 

During the winter months mails are tri-weekly; in June and 
September daily, and during July and August there are morn- 
ing and afternoon mails. 

June and September 
Mail closes, 7 A. M. ; opens, 4.30 P. M. 



40 



July and August 

Mail closes, 7 A. M. ; opens, 4.30 P. M. 

2 P. M.; opens, 2.15 P. M. (including Si 



day.) 




MEMORABLE EVENTS IN BLOCK ISLAND'S 

HISTORY 
Discovery by Verrazano. 

Landing of Adrian Block, the Dutch explorer. 
Under control of Massachusetts Bay Colony. 
Transferred by colony to John Endicott, Richard 
Bellingham, Daniel Dennison, and William 
Hawthorne. 
Sold for £400 to sixteen men, who in 



1524. 
1614. 
1636. 
1658. 



1660. 




41 






1829. 




1832. 




1842. 




1853. 




1872. 


>-r 


1873. 




1874. 



1661. Settled there. 

1672. Town incorporated under name of New Shoreham. 

1689. Naval engagement between French and English near 

the Island. 
1699. Rev. Samuel Niles (first college graduate from 
Rhode Island) received degree from Harvard 
College. 
1 753. ? Approximate date of wreck of Palatine. 
1 765. First church organized. 

1 779. Town records taken to mainland for safe keeping 
during war. 

First lighthouse erected on Sandy Point. 

Weekly mail established. 

First hotel opened. 

First steamboat excursion to the Island. 

Life saving station built at West Side. 

Mail carried three times per week. 

South Lighthouse built ($75,000). 

Life saving station at East Side. 
1875. Island High School first established. 

Island Library started. 

President Grant visits the Island, 



42 



Daily mail for three summer months. 

Government breakwater at East Harbor completed. 

Telegraphic cable laid by U. S. Government. 

Signal office established. 

Steamer George W. Danielson built. 

Town undertakes work on Great Salt Pond. 

Crescent Beach Life Saving Station built. 

Water introduced from Sands Pond to Harbor 

Village. 
Long distance telephone connection with mainland. 
Steamer New ShorehaM begins service. 




43 




1903. 



1904. 
907. 



U. S. Weather Bureau Building erected. 

Wireless telegraphy station opened by Providence 
Journal. 

River and Harbor Commission entertained at Ocean 
View^ Hotel. 

Steamer Larchmont sinks in Block Island Sound. 

For services rendered in that disaster Block Island 
fishermen receive honors from Carnegie Hero Fund, 
U. S. Government, State of Rhode Island and 
U. S. Volunteer Life Saving Service. 

THE BLOCK ISLAND PEOPLE 

"Whatever makes men good Christians, makes them good 
citizens." — Daniel Webster. 

The Island people are representative New Englanders, of 
the old American stock. Fev^^ foreign elements mingle in 
their line of descent which in the leading families can easily be 
traced back to the Revolution and the Mayflower. As a whole 
they are generous, ambitious, industrious, God-fearing men and 
women, thrifty and home-loving. Most of them own their own 
homes and gardens and live comfortably and happily, with- 
out cares of wealth or poverty. The men are earnest workers, 



.aflBKsac 



44 



mmm 



sturdy, keen and independent, while the women are thrifty 
housekeepers and unrivalled cooks — which can be vouched 
ior by any visitor who has been fortunate enough to share a 
typical Block Island meal. Both sexes are well educated, and 
jthe younger generation includes in its number many college 
graduates. 




PLACES OF INTEREST 
"When pleasant sights salute the eyes." — A^. P. Willis. 
Most of what might be called the places of interest have 
been mentioned under their own separate heads, but collected 



45 



-r-, 

i,-i^_^ 

-f 




under the heading of this paragraph is a heterogeneous Hst of 
names not elsewhere emphasized. 

Birthplace of Katharine Ray, the famous belle of 
Revolutionary days is to be found on southwestern part of 
Island on "old well lot," owned by Lovell H. Dickens. 

She will be remembered as the wife of Gov. Green of 
Rhode Island, the friend of Franklin, and the lady whom 
Washington best liked to choose for his partner in the dance. 

Indian Burying Ground, north of Fresh Pond, contains 
the graves of the old Indian inhabitants. There are no inscrip- 
tions on the stones and mere stumps are used for markers. 

The Oldest House on the Island is still doing good 
service. It is located in the Middle District back of Town 
Hall. 

Palatine Graves, the only tangible proof of the mysteri- 
ous Palatine are located in a lot owned by Robison Lewis, 
near the cellar of old Dickens homestead. 

Pebbly Beach is a favorite walk in the summer time, and 
takes one along the shore back of Ocean View Hotel on 
towards South Light. The popular name is Lover's Retreat, 
from the tradition that here Cupid's arrows prove true and are 
fatal to all who encounter them. 



k 



46 



■ fe^iBea ' *a 8 M ; ^*fctojt*.rj?^-tisj.j^.JiJ ' Ji-^j-*-A^jihU-..-«>A.^i^ 



Pots and Kettles is the name given to a spot on shore 
south of Clay Head where strange formations of clay and 
minerals, geodes and peculiar stones are found. 

Searles Mansion, or White Hall, built by Edward 
F. Searles in 1889 still attracts attention for its splendid 
location, and imposing style of architecture. After the death 
of Mrs. Searles the estate was sold and has changed hands 
several times. Its present owner is Howard C. Slade of New 
York City. 

The Windmills are deplorably out of repair and are no 
longer used for making the famous Block Island meal, but their 
quaint structure is still of interest. One, on the West Side, 
the other in the Centre, just back from the Old Road are easily 
accessible. 

Wireless Station may be identified by the very high pole 




47 




a little east of South Light. When in use it was an important 
station and during the last yacht races was the first to com- 
municate with Lipton on his arrival from England. 

Wrecks on the shore are not frequent as of old, but a few 
remains of battered vessels may still be seen below the cliffs, 
and along the beach. They tell their own sad story and kindle 
the tourist's imagination by their mystery and suggestiveness. 

PONDS 

"In the summer time when pool and pond 
Held in the laps of the valleys fond. 
Are blue as the glimpses of sea beyond." 

— Whittier, "The Palatine.'' 

The number of little, fresh water ponds scattered here and 
there in every possible place has puzzled many a student of 
topography. They unexpectedly peep out at one in all sorts 
of unlooked for places from the hill top down to the very 
shore. The close proximity of the ocean, however, seems to 
have no effect on the water, which is as pure and fresh as in 
inland lakes. Ken Swamp, located near Dickens' Point, 
furnishes a good example, being within 8 feet from the edge 
of the bluffs, and 150 feet above the level of the sea. And 



■■*■■*» 



SW^SS»gSISSi..i£Jl'ii-Jii^^iA 



-'^''^T'^'ftit^'fmiwi I 



48 



there are so many of these ponds! Stories say there are three 
hundred and sixty-five — one for each day in the year. At 
any rate they are of great value to the farms near which they 
are located, and in cold w^inters yield a supply of ice. Many 
of them characterized by a depth of water have a peat bottom, 
and are known as "Tug swamps" in early times having fur- 
nished peat for the inhabitants of the Island. Nowadays they 
offer good fishing to the sportsman, and tempt all passers by 
their beautiful water lilies which blossom in great abundance. 
What is known as New Harbor, originally was called the 
Great Pond. It is now connected with the ocean and forms 
a harbor for steamers and sailing craft. 




49 







The following list only includes the largest of the ponds, 
and those which might be of interest to strangers. 

ChaguM Pond, sometimes spelled SachEM Pond, with 
exception of the New Harbor is of the largest area. It is 
located at Sandy Point on the northern end of the Island at 
the termination of the Neck Road. On the north it very 
nearly approaches the sea, being separated only by a band of 
sand. The view from the point looking across the pond is most 
attractive, and beyond at the south are two smaller ponds 
which present the same opportunities for fishing. 

Fresh Pond abounds in fish, and is located in the South 
East District of the Island. It may be reached by passing 
Connecticut House going length of Sands Avenue and then 
keeping to the left. South of the pond proper is one of the large 
"tug holes" where most of the lilies offered for sale are obtained. 

Harbor Pond, situated north of the Woonsocket House 
and in rear of East Life Saving Station, has been made salt 
by the digging of a canal from New Harbor, and is of no 
economic importance. I' 

Sands Pond is located on very high land north of Mohegan • 
Bluffs. It supplies town water for the village, and furnisher 
bass, perch and pickerel as an inducement to fishermen. 



50 



RESTAURANTS 

He may live without love, — What is passion but pining? 
But where is the man that can live without dining? 

— Olpen Meredith, "Lucile." 

To the excursionist who visits a seaport town the fish dinner 
is one of its most alluring offerings. While the various hotels 
plan to accommodate guests for meals, the restaurants are in 
readiness to serve their patrons at any and all times, and profFer 
tempting dishes of Block Island's own production. 

American Restaurant. Mrs. M. Hure. Fountain 
Square. Open until midnight. 

Barber's Restaurant. M. S. Barber. Old Harbor 
Landing. 

Clam Bake Pavilion. Edgar H. Willis. At head of 
wharf, New Harbor. Open until midnight. 

Mott's Restaurant. Alton H. Mott. New Harbor 
Landing. Meals served upon arrival of steamer. 

ROADS 

"Take any road, you can't go amiss." 

— James L. Petigree. 

Because of the rolling surface of the Island the roads are 
naturally hilly, although the steepest inclines have been cut 
idown as much as possible, to make traveling easier. They 
.compare well with country roads in other towns, and are each 
year undergoing improvements. A macadam road of splendid 




51 




construction connects the two harbors and extends on the Neck. 
The state is gradually building others, and it is believed that 
very soon all the principal thoroughfares will be of stone. 

Automobiles as yet are not common on the Island. The|i 
area is not large enough for touring, and the scenery has so 
many charms that it bids the traveler pass slowly. 

(For direction and location of roads see DRIVES.) 

SCHOOLS I 

"Just education forms the man." 

— Gap. 

A High School and five district schools corresponding toj 
grammar schools, are supported by the town. They are wellj 
regulated and well conducted, and compare pleasingly withj 
those of larger localities. | 

District Schools are located in each district, and are| 
typical country school houses — CENTRE ScHOOL located onj 
road east of Cemetery. 

Neck School, Neck Road. 

Harbor School, near Mill Pond on Old Road. 

Gully School, on road to Sands Pond. 

West Side School, near Free Will Baptist Church. 



52 



High School is held in the Town Hall at Centre. The 
school building was burned in 1 908. 

STEAMERS 

"She walks the waters like a thing of life. 
And seems to dare the elements to strife." 

— B^ron. 

Steamboats came to the Island as early as the fifties. That 
was before the breakwater was built, and as the steamer lay 
at anchor in the bay passengers were conveyed to shore in 
small boats. After East Harbor was completed regular trips 




^ 



53 



l^ T 




were made during the summer months, and in 1 880 Steamer 
George W. Danielson was built to run the entire year. 
Great joy came with her maiden trip, and "good luck" has 
been her portion ever since. She is still in active service, 
although a part of the year the New Shoreham takes her 
route. 

Block Island Steamboat Company. Steamer George 
W. Danielson, from January to May, leaves Block Island 
Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8 A. M., returning, leaves 
Providence Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 9.45 A. M., 
and Newport 1 P. M. 

From June to October leaves Block Island for Newport 
daily (except Sundays) at 7. 15 A. M.; returning, leaves New- 
port, 1.30 P. M. 

MoNTAUK Steamboat Company. Steamers leave New 
York daily from last of June till first of September arriving at 
Block Island the following morning. Also connection is made 
with trains at Long Island for those desiring a quicker route. 
(See revised time tables.) 

New England Navigation Company. Steamer Block 
Island leaves Norwich at 8.20 A. M., New London, at 9.50 
A. M., and Watch Hill at 10.55 A. M. daily from July 



54 



through first week in September. Returning leaves Block 
Island at 2.15 P. M. Sundays, one hour later. 

Steamer New Shoreham during May, and from October to 
January leaves Block Island for Newport and Providence at 
8 A. M. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Returning 
leaves Providence at 1 0.45 A. M. and Newport at 1 P. M. 
on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. From June to October 
daily trips. During July and August connects at Stonington 
with trains from New York. 

Providence, Fall River and Newport Steamboat 
Company. Steamer Mount Hope, from July till middle of 
September, leaves Providence daily at 9 A. M., Newport 





1 1 A. M., and returning leaves Block Island at 3.15 P. M. 
Steamers Mount Hope and Danielson land at Old Harbor. 
All schedules subject to change. 

SUMMER VISITORS 

*'By the glad waters of the dark blue sea, 
Our tho'ts as boundless, and our souls as free." 

— Byron. 

Perhaps there is no better assurance of Block Island's attrac- 
tiveness as a summer resort than the fact that her visitors return 
year after year. Hotels welcome their old guests, and the 
landmg of each steamer unites old friends. The alluring 
summer homes, with their combined atmosphere of rest and 
pleasure, are but yet another evidence of the old charms Block 
Island offers to her summer friends. 

TELEGRAPH AND TELEPHONE CONNECTION 

"Kind messages that pass from land to land." 

— Longfellorv. 

Providence Telephone Company. Central at D. B. 
Dodge's Drug Store Building. Public 'phones may be found 



50 



at the various hotels for either local or long distance connection. 

Western Union Telegraph Company connects with 
government cable at Narragansett Pier, so that messages may 
be sent to all parts. Offices at U. S. Weather Bureau Building 
(on car line to New^ Harbor), and Ocean View^ Hotel. 

Wireless Telegraph Station, near South East Light- 
house, De Forest system, installed by Providence Journal, 
and seldom open to public use. 

TEMPERATURE 

"Soft as her clime, and sunny as her skies." 

— B^ron. 

Block Island's situation exempts it from the warm breezes 
of the mainland, and insures a low temperature during the , 





summer months, the mercury seldom rising above 70°. The 
climate is exhilirating yet mild and the air cool and refreshing. 
The nights are conducive to sleep and are of wondrous 
beauty. The constellations stand out brilliantly, the moonlight 
effects on the water are exquisite, and most every one of them 
fits Wordsworth's description of 

"A beauteous evening, calm and free." 



■■^- 



TRANSPORTATION ABOUT TOWN 

"The distance is nothing; it is only the first step that costs." 

— Mme. Da Defand. 

As the car line simply connects the two harbors via the 
bathing beach, transportation to any other part of town neces- 
sarily depends on carriages. The larger hotels furnish their 
own livery for the convenience of their guests, and public rigs 
may be obtained at most any hour at Fountain Square. 
Families remaining on the Island for the season often bring 
their own turnouts. 



II 



58 



WATER 

"Water, water everywhere — " 
' — Coleridge. 

j And may we change the recognized ending of the quotation 
I by saying that there is plenty of water to drink? Very few 
places are as fortunate as Block Island in their resources for 
water. The ponds, previously mentioned, are seldom dry and 
they furnish water of the clearest and purest quality. Sands 
Pond supplies most of the water used by the village and has 
been found to be very healthful. Numerous wells and cisterns 
have been built for private use, and nature has provided springs 
in great abundance, which are cool, clear, refreshing and 




59 




infallible in supply. The best known are the ones from which 
the Spring House gets its name. They are impregnated with 
iron and may be sampled by the visitor at the little pavilion 
on the road to Pebbly Beach. 

WILD FLOWERS 

"Then the hills are sweet with the brier rose, 
And, hid in the warm, soft dells, unclose. 
Flowers the mainland rarely knows." 

— Whittier. 

One paragraph has been devoted to the birds common to 
the Island, and it seems but fair that we make a slight mention 
of her wild flowers. The roadsides are covered with unculti- 
vated vegetation, wild strawberry and blackberry vines, herbs, 
like mullen, chicory, yarrow, milk weed, tansy, everlasting, 
spearmint, thoroughwort and pennyroyal, and abundant wild 
flowers in their season. Of course the gem of them all is the 
pond lily. In swampy places, cat-o'-nine-tails, fleur-de-lis, 
marsh marigold and sweet flag are found. Wild roses, asters, 
California creepers, honeysuckle and numberless varieties of 



gTIITT — TinntlB 

60 



clover and golden rod are abundant as are also the buttercups, 
daisies, heartsease, pulse, butter and egg, bouncing bets, dusty 
miller, violets, wild pea, allsic, blue-eyed grass, etc., w^hile ferns 
cover every obtainable space with their verdant fronds. 

WRECKS 
"Old ocean's gray, and melancholy waste 
Are but the solemn decoration all 
Of the great tomb of man." 

— Br'^ant, ''Thanatopsis,'' L. 43. 
Before the days of the light houses and life saving stations 




61 




wrecks were very numerous. Situated as it is in the centre 
of navigation crafts of all kind perpetually pass Block Island's 
shores, and it is only within recent years that they find the 
Island a source of benefit instead of menace to their reckoning. 
Formerly wrecking was one of the prmcipal industries of the 
Island, and members of the prominent wrecking companies 
were well known for their courage, persistence and ability, in 
that they established a reputation for themselves all along the 
coast. Nowadays wrecks are comparatively few. But some 
of the old ones are still interesting to recall. The following 
account of The Warrior and the MoLUNCUS are taken 
from Livermore's History. 

"The two-masted schooner Warrior was wrecked on 
Sandy Point in April, 1 83 1 . She became becalmed in the 
previous evening and drifted until she became land-locked by 
the tide of the Point where she found herself early the next 
morning, while the wind was blowing a heavy gale, and the 
Sound was foaming with white-caps. 

"One of the crew, large and resolute, used great exertion 
to keep his imperiled companions from becoming chilled and 
benumbed by the cold wind, by keeping them active. Finally, 



62 



as he saw no hope of assistance from the hundreds on the 
shore, he made the desperate effort of running on the sand- 
bar to the land between two monstrous waves, but when half 
way to land he saw a violent sea coming upon him, and he 
bravely turned and met it head foremost. He might as well 
have met an Alpine avalanche. His dead body soon after 
was picked up on the beach. Others on the wreck lashed 
themselves to the deck, and after the storm were taken off 
by the Islanders, all dead and blackened by the bruises received 
from the debris violently thrown hither and thither by the 
angry waves. That was a solemn day when seven corpses 
from the Warrior were lying side by side upon the green bank 
not far from the wreck. Captain Scudder, all of his crew 




,/ 







and passengers, finished life's voyage together in that worst of 
places in a gale, where two seas meet. 

"The Islanders made respectable coffins for the unfortunate 
strangers, laid them out decently, and had religious services 
at their burial. Their seven graves may now be seen in the 
northwest corner of the Cemetery on the Island. Captain 
Scudder and his mate, it is said, have been removed by their 
friends, who were happily surprised in finding their dead so 
kindly cared for by the hands of strangers. 

"The whole number of lives lost by the wreck of the Warrior, 
there is reason to believe, was twenty-one, fourteen of whom 
drifted away never to be seen again until the sea shall give 
up its dead. Mr. Anthony Littlefield, who witnessed the sad 
disaster, while in Boston soon after, heard a man say that he 
was on board the Warrior just before she sailed, and she then 
had in all twenty-one — eighteen men, two women, and a 
colored maid-servant. 

"This fearful wreck is said to have been the result of care- 
lessness on the part of the watch, who did not give timely 
warning of danger. Mr. Weeden Gorton, while watching the 
wreck, says he saw men jump overboard like sheep while the 
Warrior was going to pieces. 



64 



The Moluncus 

"The Moluncus, a brig, stranded on Block Island, at Grace's 

Point, in 1855, an account of which is here given, in part, 

' to indicate the mettle of the Island sailors in the midst of great 

' dangers at sea. A very severe storm drove her ashore about 

evening. The Island Wrecking Company were soon at hand 

and bantering to get her off. As she was so fast aground her 

captain, crew, and the wreckers all left her, and on shore went 

to the house of Robert C. Dunn, a short distance from the 

■vessel. There they bantered some time about the price of 

getting her off and into port. At last the agreement was made, 

the condition being $2,500. Each party took a copy of the 

contract. By this time it was quite dark, rain falling, and the 

wind blowing a gale. But the wreckers decided to examine 




""l!^ 






65 




the vessel as far as possible to determine what gear to apply to 
her in the morning. But when they reached the place where 
they left her, behold she Tvas gone! What was to be done? 
They were bound to get her into port by the stipulation. To 
lose her was to lose a fine sum of money. But how could she 
be found in such a night? The furious waves were coming 
towards them and madly breaking at their feet, waves accom- 
panied by winds howling fearfully, while over all brooded 
thick darkness. That wind moved an Island barn from its 
foundations. They had neither light nor compass, and only 
a frail surf-boat with which to venture upon such a sea. Yet, 
without parley, the more daring seized their boat, shoved it 
into the teeth of the wind and waves, and one after another 
leaped in and pushed off, with Capt. N. L. Willis, Frank 
Willis, Sylvanus Willis (three brothers), Simon Ball, Wm. 
P. Ball, Silas Mott, S. R. Allen, Luther Dickens, and Thomas 
Rathbone, and launched to search for the lost brig in the 
storm and darkness. Soon they were out at sea, tossed here 
and there, at the mercy of wind, waves, tide, and darkness. 
The direction of the wind was their only guide. Anxious 
thoughts flit across their minds occasionally as they continued 
the search for the faintest outlines of the vessel, but none 



66 



B^Siffi^^jE^X" 



could be seen. At last, when hope deferred began to make the 
hearts of some sick, through the spray and darkness some- 
thing like the shadow of a ship appeared. 'Steady, boys! 
: haul steady to wind'ard, for your lives!' said the Captain in 
\ an old 'sea-dog' tone that meant what only sailors can fully 
understand. Soon all hearts grew light, and the oars were 
pulled with a force they had never felt from human hands 
before. Words were few. The brig was there, miles away 
from land, rocking in the deep troughs, with her tall masts 
swaying this way and that, almost lying flat, for an instant, 
5 upon the water. Her lee side was cautiously approached, 
■ and as its gunnel came to the water's edge, one leaped aboard, 
a line from her was made fast to the brave boat, and soon all 
f'Were upon her broad deck, manning her sails, and heading 
|5for Newport, where their well-earned $2,500 in gold was 
I promptly tendered by the Captain whose brig was got off by 
the rising tide, and by a most daring venture was found and 
sailed into port in good condition." 

Accounts of the old wrecks, like The ParoDIE, Lady OF 
THE Lake, the barge RELIANCE, etc., and in more recent 
years of the LeydeN, SparTAN, Nero and Vamoose would 
m.ore than fill the pages of this little book. There is scarce room 
to relate the horrible disaster of the steamer LarcHMONT (Joy 
Line, from Providence to New York) which occurred Febru- 
ary 1 1, 1907, and which is associated with the name of Block 
Island, although it was by no means responsible for the dire- 
ful catastrophe. The night was clear but exceptionally cold. 
The Larchmont colliding with a three masted schooner sank 

im 

67 




immediately. Three life boats were manned and with difficulty 
reached Sandy Point, but their occupants were hopelessly 
frozen. The hurricane deck freed itself from the sinking 
steamer and with its handful of lives drifted down the Sound 
until rescued by Block Island fishermen. Out of 200 pass- 
engers only 19 lives were saved, their associates freezing to 
death. The heroism of the Island people in risking every- 
thing to aid the stricken sufferers should go down in history 
as an example of self-sacrifice. The service rendered by the 
fishing boats which put out from harbor to their relief was 
rewarded by medals from U. S. Government, State of Rhode 
Island, U. S. Volunteer Life Saving Corps, and Carnegie 
Hero Fund. 



68 



HON. NICHOLAS BALL 

"Before man made us citizens, great Nature made us men." 

— LoTvell. 

The first page of this book bears an inscription to 
the memory of the late Hon. Nicholas Ball, and before the 
final page is turned it seems but fitting that a few facts should 
be mentioned of his life — a life devoted to the interests and 
welfare of his native town. 

Nicholas Ball was born December 31,1 828, and died July 
31, 1 896. He attended private school at an early age, and 
during vacation in his ninth year shipped as a cook, on a sailing 
vessel. The life of the sailor so fascinated him that for many 
years he followed the sea, and made several foreign voyages as 
well as coasting all along the Atlantic shore. In 1 849 as first 
mate of the brig GENERAL CoBB he went around Cape Horn 
to California, where as a gold digger he was eminently success- 
ful. He made a second visit to California in 1 85 1 , but three 
years later came home to settle down. He then bought a fine 
property, and began the mercantile business. In 1854 and 55 
he was elected by his fellow townsmen as their representative 
to the General Assembly of Rhode Island. In 1 858 he be- 
came State Senator, which office he filled for fifteen consecutive 
years, with the exception of three terms. 

From boyhood he had longed to see Block Island's condi- 
tions improved. When he became a member of Rhode Island's 
legislature he determined if possible to realize his dreams. 
So, with a perseverance that beggars description, he worked 



■m 



(W 




both night and day in depicting to Washington congressmen 
the terrible loss of life and property on the shores of Block 
Island. At the same time he profFered plans for prevention of 
such destruction, and finally succeeded in obtaining from the 
government the magnificent breakwater which has cost some 
$300,000 and made possible the Harbor of Refuge. With the 
same resolute perseverance he succeeded in obtaining the erec- 
tion of two United States life saving stations, and later the 
southeast lighthouse on Mohegan Bluffs, with its accompanying 
fog whistle. Also in 1 880 his efforts were again rewarded by 
the construction of a signal station, and the establishing of a j 
submarine cable. Till the end of his life he showed marked i 
interest in public affairs, and always in the advancement of j 
Block Islands' prosperity. 

To some extent he was able to contribute to the latter, by 
bringing people of prominence and wealth to the Island as 
guests at his hotel — the Ocean View. By his genial person- 
ality and successful management this house became well known 
and widely popular, and today stands with Block Island's 
above-mentioned adornments as a tribute to his memory. 



mki 



70 




71 



"O, it's a snug little Island! 
A right little, tight little Island." 

— Thos. Dibdin. 



72 



INDEX 

PAGE 

Adrian's Eyland I 

Amusements 4 

Ball. Hon. Nicholas 69 

Bathing Beach 5 

Beacon Hill 15. 25 

Birds 6 

Block. Adrian 1 

Cemetery 7 

Centre 13 

Chagum Pond 50 

Churches 7 

Claudia I 

Clay Head 15 

Cottages (Quiet Places to Stop) 29 

Crescent Beach 5, 16 

Dancing Mortar 36 

Distances Around Island 12 

Distances from East Harbor Landing 8 

Districts 12 

Drives 14 

Dutch Kattern 35 

East Harbor of Refuge 22 

Elevations 12 

Endicott, Col. John 1 

Fraternal Organizations I o 

Fresh Pond 50 

Government Buildings 1o 

Harbor 13 

Harbor Pond 50 

Harbors 22 



73 




PAGE 

Hills 25 

Hotels 26 

Indian Burying Ground 7, 46 

Indians, Narragansett 1 

Industries 31 

"Island of the Sea"' 3 

Kidd, Captain 13, 37 

Legends 34 

Library 38 

Life Saving Stations 20 

Light Houses 20 

Location of Island 39 

Mails 40 

Manisses, Isle of 1 

Memorable Events 41 

Mohegan Bluffs 16 

MoLUNCus 64 

Names of Island 1 

Neck 14 

New Harbor 24, 49 

New Shoreham 2 

Ocean Drive 16 

Oldest House on Island 46 

Oldham, John 1 

Old Harbor 23 

Palatine Graves 46 

Palatine Legend 34 

Pebbly Beach 46 

People of Block Island 44 

Pilot Hill 25 

Places of Interest 45 

Plover Hill 26 



74 



PAGE 

Ponds 48 

Pots and Ketdes 47 

Ray, Katharine 46 

Refugees 36 

Restaurants 57 

Roads 51 

Sachem Pond 50 

Sands Pond 50 

Sandy Hill 26 

Schools 52 

Searle's Mansion 47 

South East Districts 14 

Steamers 53 

Summer Visitors 56 

Telegraph and Telephone 56 

Temperature 57 

Town Hall 13 

Transportation About Town 58 

Vaill Cottages, Drive by 17 

Verrazano 1 

Warrior 62 

Water 59 

Weather Bureau 20 

West Side 14 

Wild Flowers 60 

Windmills 47 

Wireless Station 47 

Wrecks 48, 61 



75 





mm 



76 



ADVERTISEMENTS 



EDUCATOR 
CRAWFORD and 
MAYFAIR 



MRS. J. E. NEGUS ROSE 

DEALER IN 

Millinery and Fancy Goods 

Full Line of Dry Goods, Notions and Small Wares 
MASONIC HALL HIGH STREET 

WM. B. SHARPE 

SHOES and BOOTS 

BLOCK ISLAND, R. I. 
When Spending the Summer at Block Island Go To 

SILAS W. MOTT 

AT THE CENTER STORE FOR 

Groceries and General Merchandise 

POULTRY OF ALL KINDS BOUGHT AND SOLD. CHICKENS A SPECIALTY [ 
The Best Fruils and 'Vegetables in their Season 

THOMAS F. GALLAGHER 
SANITAR Y PLUMBING 

STEAM AND GAS PIPE FITTING 
ALL ORDERS PROMPTLY ATTENDED TO. Telephone Connection 

460 Prairie Avenue, corner Oxford Street, PROVIDENCE, R. I. 

W. TALBOT DODGE COTTAGE. BLOCK ISLAND, R. I. 



MISS LIZZIE HAZARD 

Milliner, Dressmaker 

AND DEALER IN FANCY GOODS 
Main Street, Block Island, R. I. 

Dr. R. H. Farnham 

DENTIST 



Water Front, Over Post Office, 



Block Island, R. 1. 



Carroll H. Ricker 

M. D. 



PHYSICIAN 
& SURGEON 



TELEPHONE 38 



Spring Street, BLOCK ISLAND 



r^0-n 




m FAVORITES 



The latest packages of Chocolates 

with Nut Centers, of such Purity. 

Quality. Flavor & Deliciousness 

as can be produced only by 



•e^ic^ 



Without having enjoyed the pleas- 
ure of a box of " My Favorites," 
you have missed the greatest 
Candy Treat. 

LARGE SIZE MORE THAN A POUtID, $1.00 

MEDIUM SIZE 
IAN A HALF PC 

SMALL SIZE 
iN A QUARTER { 

SOLD AT OUR 

STORES AND 

AGENTS EVERYWHERE 




HO 




S^EWSPAPERS SHOVELS MAGAZINES 



H^ 



V SOUVENIR ^^ 

POST CARDS ^ 




FOUNTAIN SQUARE BLOCK ISLAND, R. I. 

UNDER ESCORT AND INDEPENDENT 
ALL TRAVELING EXPENSES INCLUDED 

SUMMER & AUTUMN 

TO ALL NOTED RESORTS 

A1k> steamship ticket AGENTS 

Complete plant for INDEPENDENT TRAVEL for 
___ individuals or parties arranged and itineraries furnished 

Established 1889 with estimates of cost. Send for booklets to 

THE PIERCE TOURIST CO., Tickets and Tours 

76 Dorrance St., Providence Telephone 234 Old South BIdg., Boston 

J. Eugene Littlefield 

DEALER IN 

MEATS and GROCERIES 

Fancy Groceries a Specialty 
BLOCK ISLAND RHODE ISLAND 

BOWLING ALLEY 

NEXT TO C C BALL'S 
NEW ALLEYS TDV V/^T ID Qk^TT T 

GOOD SERVICE IK I ivJUK orvlLL. 



Mott's Ocean Dinners ^^•^^l^i?^ 



AT THE 

DINING HALL 
NEW HARBOR 



ICE CREAM and SODA, COLLEGE ICES 
SOUVENIR POST CARDS 

AT 
Alton H. Mott's Store, New Harbor. Block Island. R.I. 

RFI I FVIJF r^'^*^'^ ^^™iy ^o^^^- situated 

■'-' •'— ' •'— ' *— ' ■■— ' ^ ^ •L-' Vs^D on high elevation overlooking 
IT /^ T I ^ F ^ \arge part of the Island and Ocean 



« 



beyond. 

OPEN ALL THE YEAR 



IVrite for full particulars to 

BLOCK ISLAND, R. I. L. B. MOTT. Prop. 



Summit House 



On high elevation — bordering on the famous 
Sand's Pond, where boats for rowing and 
fishing are always at the disposal of guests — affords a charming home for the 
summer. Its Urge farm furnishes the table with all the produds of the dairy — 
fresh vegetables, poultry and eggs. Its orchard is rarely surpassed on the 
mainland. 
^==^====^=^==1 For rates address ^=^^^=^^^=^== 

MRS. ALBERT W. SMITH 

Dl /^^ ., The Dodge Cottage has a particularly forlu- 

OUyC V>«OLLciyC nate location, near the center of the village, 
but removed from the adtual bustle and confusion of the street. It is within two 
minutes' walk of the Old Harbor, and is near the street car line to the New 
Harbor. It is within a short distance of the Bathing Beach. All modern con- 
veniences are at hand, including long distance telephone. The rates are reason- 
able. All modern improvements, electric light, long distance telephone, baths, 
etc. For terms, etc., address. j^^^ ^^ TALBOT DODGE, Proprietor. 



AMERICAN 
RESTAURANT 



I 



DESIRE to inform visitors to the Island that 
I am prepared to furnish Broiled Live Lobsters 
and Shore Dinners at short notice and reasonable 
prices. I also conduct a first-class Restaurant 
and Ice Cream Parlor w^ith a full line of Con- 
fedionery, Cigars and Ice Cold Soda. 
Respectfully soliciting your patronage, I am, 

American Restaur ant ^''"^i/ ^«"''^> 

Fountain Square MRS. M. HURE 

GILES P. DUNN, Jr. 

FISH MARKET AT NEW HARBOR 

Fresh Lobsters and Swordfish 

J SPECIALTY 
EXPRESS ORDERS ATTENDED TO PROMPTLY 

Goods delivered dail^ to Boats for New Yorl^, Providence and 

New London 

TELEPHONE, BLOCK ISLAND 14-3 



BYRAM WOODHEAD 

Photographer 

GROUPS AND VIEWS OF THE ISLAND 
MADE TO ORDER 



VIEWS OF THE ISLAND FOR SALE 
T)eveloping and 'Printing for Jimaieurs a Specialty 

Next Stand to Mitchell's Salt Water Taffy Shop 



Home Address, Palmer, Mass. 



BLOCK ISLAND 



J. B. LAWLOR 




BLOCK ISLAND, RHODE ISLAND 
WATER FRONT 



JOHN ROSE & COMPANY 




Main Street 



Wish to announce that they have a 

FULL LINE OF 

BLOCK ISLAND 
SOUVENIRS 

which the summer visitor is invited 
to inspect. ^ Souvenirs in Post 
Cards, China, Leather and Shell. 
^ We also have a large line of 
Novelties adapted to Whist Prizes, 
German Favors, etc. ^ Beach Pails 
and Shovels, Toys and Children's 
Playthings are here in great profu- 
sion. •! Our large stock insures a 
chance to makeasatisfactoryselection. 



BLOCK ISLAND, R. I. 



Massasoit Hair Dressing Rooms 

ON FOUNTAIN SQUARE 

This is the largest and best furnished shop on the Island, running four 
chairs. Patrons will receive prompt attention here. 

FIRST-CLASS PATRONAGE SOLICITED 

Special Apartments for Ladies' Shampooing and Manicuring 
Shoe Polishing 



MILLIKIN BROTHERS, Proprietors 



WM. J. MILLIKIN 



EUC. P. MILLIKIN 



The Surf Hotel 



Overlooks the bathing beach on one side, 
break-water and boat lanciing on the other, 
and is one of the best located houses on the 

^_^^^^^__^___^^^__^^_^_^,^^^^^ Island. Guests may dress in their rooms for 

^^^"^ ocean bathing. All the rooms are high 

studded, hard finished walls; the celebrated Bliss springs and good hair mattresses on every bed. 

The house is connected with Sand's Pond Reservoir; water on every floor, and the best of 

toilet accommodations. 

Every room has an ocean view. The hotel entrance is on main street, with hall running 

through the house connecting with stairs that descend to beach. The parlor and dining hall are 

heated by steam on such cool days as might occur at last of season. Fresh vegetables, with 

milk, butter and eggs, are furnished daily from the farms on the Island. 

A bazaar is connected with the hotel, where strangers can find a large assortment of 

souvenirs in sterling silver, paintings, etc. The post-office, different churches and drug stores 

are all within a few hundred feet of the hotel. 

Long distance telephone in the hotel to any part of the United States. Horses and 

carriages are at the disposal of guests, and can be ordered at the office. Music and dancing and 

various entertainments are provided. The Surf will open for the season about June 15th. 

Rates $10 to $15 per week, $2.0U to $3.00 per day, according to location of room and time of 

season. 



Apply for Booklets to 

MRS. C. W. WILLIS, Proprietor, 



Block Island, R. I. 



M- 


^fe> 


Trade Mark 



Wl LBVR'S 

CHOCOtATE 

BVDS 



and other WiLBUR high grade sweet chocolate 
specialties are for sale by C. C. Ball, Block Island 



:MANUFACTURED BY: 



H. O. WILBUR & SONS, Inc., PHILADELPHIA 




The 
Woonsocket 

A. J. ROSE, Prop. 

Block Island - Rhode Island 



THE WOONSOCKET HOTSE 



LOCATION. Modern in appointment, with accommodations forgone 
hundred guests, the Woonsocket House and Annex is without 
doubt the most popular family hotel on Block Island. 

BATHING. Bath houses, large and roomy, are free to guests, and 
the bathing facilities are excellent. 

VERANDAS. Large verandas surround the houses, upon which 
shade and sea breezes may be enjoyed at all hours of the day. 



The Old and "Reliable 

ISLAND DRUG STORE, 

DARIUS B. DODGE & CO. 



BLOCK ISLAND 
RHODE ISLAND 



CIGARS, CONFECTIONERY 
TOILET ARTICLES, Etc., Etc. 

ALSO 
A FULL LINE OF DRUGS 



Prescriptions carefully compounded by competent clerks. Open the 
year round since July 4, 1 889 



THE 
ADRIAN 

Ideal in location 
and appointments 

Select Family Hotel 

For Booklets, address 
Nathan Molt, Prop. 



BLOCK ISLAND, R. I. 




VAILL COTTAGES 



South Bluffs 



Block Island, R. I. 



Affording the only opportunity for enjoying the natural attractions of 
the bold coast scenery on the south shore of Block Island. As beneficial as 
a sea voyage, without any of its disagreeable effects. The prevailing summer 
wind from the southwest brings the sea breeze in absolute purity. A "Sum- 
mer at Sea" with the added attractions of the land. Comfortable rooms, 
good beds, table of a particularly high standard, pure spring water, golf 
and tennis. Moderate rates. Send for folder. 



Miss J. M. VAILL, Prop. 



T. Vaill Barton, Mgr. 



Ocean Cottage 




THE OCEAN COTTAGE U 
one ot the best known hotels on 
the Island. It has an ideal location 
being situated on Water Street, facing 
the ocean which is only a few feet 
away. It is within easy reach of all 
stores, churches, and places of amuse- 
ment, and the street cars pass directly 
in front of the door. 
The proprietor has earned a splendid 
reputation for the table, and will con- 
tinue to maintain its high quality in the 
future. The sleeping rooms are com- 
fortable and airy and every bed is furn- 
ished with the famous Bliss springs. 
OCEAN coTTACii; The proprietor makcs a point of look- 

ing after the comfort and convenience of his guests personally ; he employs only experienced help, 
and endeavors in every way to supply every wish of his patrons. 

The rates are moderate ; the service excellent. For further information address 

OLLIE ROSE, Proprietor 



The Island Department Store 

Boots, Shoes and Rubbers for all. Agency for 
the "Walk-Over" Shoes, $3.50, $4.00 and 
$5.00. Ladies' "Clarice" Shoes $3.50 and 
$3.00; "Valois" $2.50; "Doris" $2.00. 
Lambertville Boots and Gold Seal Rubbers. 
Ladies' and Men's Furnishings, Dry and Fancy 
Goods. Pants and Overalls, Bathing and Out- 
ing Goods, Hats and Caps. Edison Phonographs 
and Records. Eastman Cameras and Supplies. 
Everything the best that can be bought for the 
money. Negus Studio in connection. 



A. NEGUS, Prop., 



WATER FRONT, EAST HARBOR. 
BLOCK ISLAND, R. I. 



The Atlantic Hou 



se 










THE ATLANTIC HUU.SE 



The Proprietor of THE AT- 
LANTIC HOUSE will leave 
nothing undone to make his 
patrons not simply pleased or 
satisfied, but delighted, hs 
table will be a leading feature 
and economy will not be an 
element to be considered in this 
respect. The house is one of the 
most commodious of any of the 
hotels of the Island, "with accom- 
modations for about 1 00 guests. 

Frederick A. Rose 

Proprietor 

Block Island, R. I. 



City Drug Store 

ON FOUNTAIN SQUARE 



Prescriptions carefully prepared by 
Registered Pharmacists day or night. 
Sole agents for Huyler's Candies. 
Headquarters for Ice Cream Soda. 
Full line Drug Store Sundries. 
Excellent service. Roomy in its 
appomtments. 



CUNDALL & BALL 

NEAR OLD HARBOR 



Highland House 






BLOCK ISLAND, R. L 

Fitly named— Because of its pro- 
nounced and unequalled location. It 
is built on one of the most pleasing 
elevations of the island, but easy of 
access in every degree. The visitor is 
at once delighted by the superior 
advantages of all surroundings. 
From the front, on the broad and 
beautiful verandas, a full view of the 
beautiful ocean greets the eve, while 
to the left and rear, country life in all 
grandeur, rolling hills and fertile fields 
delight the vision, the combination of 
HiiiHi. wn HOUSE sea and country life impressing the 

beholder of unsurpassed pleasure. The grounds are terraced, making the house more prominent, 
and there are ample accommodations for ball, tennis, croquet and other field sports. 
The house proper, has accommodations for 150 gueSls. An annex, for the special accommo- 
dations of families, and oth-rs, who mav have preference for cottage life, adjoins the house proper. 
Gas, Long distance telephone. Music Roim, and other amusements. 

D A. MITCHELL, Proprietor 




The Inn, Block Island, R. I. 

Ice Cream :: :: Soda 
Sundaes and College Ices 



Under the management of Mr. Ralph P. Boas, of Ralph's 

Rustic Inn at the stand formerly occupied 

by The College Inn 



C. C. BALL'S 

FOUNTAIN SQUARE 
The place to purchase whatever you need or desire. 



Souvenirs in infinite variety in 
China, Silver, Leather, Burnt Wood, Etc. 



Dry and Fancy Goods 

Gents' Furnishings 

Yachting, Boating and Outing Goods 

Choice Fruits 

Fine Confectionery 

Cigars and Smokers' Sundries 

Agent for Standard Oil Company— Naphtha and Oil 

Groceries, Meats and General Merchandise 

Coal and Lumber 



''IF YOU DON'T SEE WHAT YOU WANT, ASK FOR IT. 




'High as 
the Alps 
in Quality" 



The Original 

— Milk= 

Chocolate 

Stands at the summil of excellence, 
for it surpasses other brands at 
every point of comparison 

More Wholesome 
More Sustaining 
More Delicious 

PETER'S has the true chocolate 
flavor which appeals to everyone. 
It is not too sweet and you never 
grow tired of 

LAMONT, CORLISS & CO., Sole Agents, NEW YORK CITY 




BLOCK ISLAND 

Building Plots For Sale 



THE Block Island Land and Improvement 
Co. has subdivided and offers for sale in 
plots of any size, its tract of 24 acres on Cres- 
cent Beach, one of the best bathing beaches in 
the world. Unexcelled air, always cool, fine 
sailing and fishing. 

The Block Island Land and Improvement 
Co. also owns all of "Clay Head,'' one of the 
finest high points on the Atlantic Coast, with a 
magnificent view of the sea on all sides. 

For those desiring a summer home at mod- 
erate cost, no better or healthier spot than 
Block Island could be found. 



For Maps and Prices Appl^ to 

DONALD W. BROWN, 1 4 1 Broadway, New York 
C. C. BALL, Block Island, Rhode Island 



Gem of the Sea 

On the Ocean's Bosom 



BLOCK ISLAND 

15 Miles out at sea from Monlauk Point, L. I., and the Connecticut and Rhode Island shores 

Unsurpassed bathing ^each. Jl Resort to Build Up Health. Always a freeze. Never 
Hot. Free from Mosquitoes. Fine Fishing and Splendid Sailing. 

Every inch of Block Island is undulating and rolling and dotted with fresh water ponds. From the lofty, jagged 
Mohican Bluffs on one side the country shapes irregularly to the beautiful and famed Crescent Beach. It is a place 
that claims your fascination at every turn. 




THE HOTEL MANISSES 

ANNEX and COTTAGES 

Commanding an inspiring view of the ocean. From the Bluffs may be seen Montauk Light, Point Judith, New 
port and Narraganselt Pier. 

Excellent Accommodations for 250. Rates from $12 Up 

Comfortable, airy, well-furnished rooms ; electric call bells throughout the house ; splendid dancing and entertain 
ment hall adjoining spacious parlors ; excellent service in every respect — never a dissatisfied guest. The cuisine has won 
a reputation for this hotel; no expense spared in providing the liest of everything in the market and plenty of it. 
Enlarged dining facilities. Block Island gives a hearty appetite, and we satisfy it. A specialty is made of sea food — 
fresh every day and caught in sight of hotel. 

Block Island reached by delightful all-water trip, via Monlauk Steamboat Line — in itself an inducement to visit 
this place. Or reached via N. Y., N. H. & H. R. R., and by boats from New London and Providence. 
For Jescriplioe circular and full parliculart addrest C. E. ^ROWN, Block Island, R. I. 




• H H ■ M I I ■ ■ a B 



i. 




NEW NATIONAL HOTEL 



The New National Hotel 



THE New National, one of the finest hotels on the New England Coast, is charmingly 
located directly on the ocean front, at the junction of Main and Water Streets. It over- 
looks the harbor where the fleet of fishing boats can be seen starting out in the morning 
and returning in the evening, making one of the most beautiful pictures imaginable. A broad 
veranda encircles the house, forming a matchless after-dinner promenade where the guests may 
lounge in easy rocking chairs. It is within a few minutes walk of all churches and stores. 

The Hotel is replete with all modern conveniences, including modern sanitary plumbing 
and drainage, lighting and heating for chilly days. Several rooms are arranged en suite with 
private baths connecting. A spacious music and dance hall where a full orchestra is in attend- 
ance and concerts are given daily, is a charming feature of the hotel. The Cuisine of the New 
National has always been noted for its excellence. The table is supplied with pure spring 
water than which there is none better. Fresh vegetables, milk, butter and eggs are obtained from 
the island farms each day. Close attention is paid to the cuisine and service, and the proprietor 
will use every endeavor to maintain the former reputation of the New National. 



R. G. LEWIS. "Proprietor, 



Block Island. R. I 



Providence, Fall River & 
Newport Steamboat Co. 



''^■^S^v^x^ 




'*'** *""- »wwjS;a 



The Popular Block Island Steamer 

Safety :: Speed :: Comfort 

Palatial Steamer Mount Hope leaves Providence for Block Island at 
9:20 A.M. week days and 10:00 A.M. Sundays. Returning leaves 
Block Island at 3:15 P.M. daily. This steamer meets all the require- 
ments for perfect marine transportation. 

H. E. WINDSOR, Superintendent. 




OCEAN VIEW HOTEL, l\^^llt^^E 

NICHOLAS BALL HOTEL CO . Proprietors 

THE MOST DELIGHTFUL SPOT ON THE COAST TO SPEND 
THE SUMMER. NO MALARIA. NO MOSQUITOES. 

This hotel, close to the ocean and 50 feet above it, accommodates 350 
guests. The broad verandas, one-fifth of a mile in length, are swept by 
sea breezes and are comfortable in the hottest weather. 

Table and service at the highest standard — as demanded by exclu- 
sive patronage. 

FINE MUSIC 
Western Union Telegraph and Long Distance Telephone in hotel. 
Good driving, boating, bathing and fishing; also tennis, dancing, billiards 
and bowling for amusements. 

For rates and descriptive booklet, apply to 

CUNDALL & BALL, Managers 



COPYRIGHT, 19( 



^ 






^i« 


















.^<=. 








.' ^^^^'$' 

* v V 




